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Union Contractor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Union Contractor information

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$14

$23

$30

How much do union contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for union contractor in Tennessee is $23.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.53 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a union contractor?

Union contractors are companies or individuals in the construction industry who employ workers that are members of a labor union. These contractors enter into collective bargaining agreements with unions, which set standards for wages, benefits, and working conditions. Union contractors often have access to a skilled and trained workforce and must adhere to the rules and agreements negotiated with the union. This relationship can provide greater stability, safety, and quality assurance on projects.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a union contractor?

To thrive as a Union Contractor, you need comprehensive knowledge of construction practices, safety regulations, and labor agreements, typically supported by industry certifications or a relevant trade license. Familiarity with project management software, OSHA safety standards, and collective bargaining systems is often required. Strong communication, negotiation, and leadership skills help build effective teams and maintain good relationships with both workers and clients. These skills ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and in compliance with union standards, which is critical for sustained success in the industry.

What are common challenges union contractors face when working on large-scale projects?

Union Contractors working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple trade unions, adhering to strict project deadlines, and ensuring compliance with collective bargaining agreements. Managing a diverse workforce and maintaining clear communication between union representatives, project managers, and subcontractors is essential. Additionally, navigating jurisdictional disputes and resolving labor issues promptly are key to keeping projects on track and fostering a positive work environment.

What is the difference between Union Contractor vs Non-Union Contractor?

AspectUnion ContractorNon-Union Contractor
Credentials/CertificationsOften requires union-specific certifications and trainingMay have fewer formal certifications, depending on project requirements
Work EnvironmentTypically works on unionized projects with collective bargaining agreementsWorks on both union and non-union projects, with more flexibility
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in industries like construction, electrical, and plumbingWidespread across various industries, including construction and maintenance
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by workers seeking union jobs or contractors working with unionsOften searched by contractors or workers interested in non-union work

In summary, a Union Contractor works within unionized environments, adhering to union standards and certifications, while a Non-Union Contractor operates outside of union agreements, offering more flexibility but fewer union-specific benefits.

What are the most commonly searched types of Contractor jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Contractor jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Union Contractor jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Union Contractor job openings:

Union Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Contractor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,306 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Field Quality Control Inspector / CWI

Sterling Boiler & Mechanical

Kingston, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description


Sterling Industrial, headquartered in Evansville, Indiana was founded and incorporated in 1982. Our company began and grew from a need for swift, reliable service for utilities in southern Indiana. Meeting the needs of utilities through small emergencies, we found an increasing need to add pipefitters and millwrights to our operation, and from there our company continued to grow.
As a multi-craft union contractor, we provide civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical services for new construction and maintenance/retrofit projects. Our core markets include power generation, metals, pulp/paper, plastics, and chemical markets. We pride ourselves on being a full-service contractor attentive and responsive to the needs of our customers; providing a full range of services and solutions for construction and maintenance projects.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
• Interpreting AWS, ASME, National Board of Boilers and Pressure Vessels, along with Jurisdictional Codes and applying them to field applications
• Knowledge and understanding of blue print reading
• Performing inspections of boilers, pressure vessels, power piping and structural steel
• Giving weld tests to crafts people at union locals for certifications
• Updating welder qualification records
• Constructing repair plans
• Directing boilermakers and steamfitters in the manner of repair plans and welding
• Coordinating with union crafts and plant personnel including outside inspection companies during scheduled plant outages
• Providing trace-ability of all welding during repair work on boilers during a scheduled Power Plant Outage
• Implementing and Managing quality standards over union crafts during a scheduled outage
• Remaining on call for unscheduled forced outages 24/7
• Knowledge of NDE processes, UT, PAUT, MT, PT and VT.
• Keeping track of quotes and billing from third party inspection companies
• Maintaining good customer relationships• Building job packages and inspection reports with documentation of work performed for turnover to customers as well as the National Board of Boilers and Pressure Vessels and the Jurisdiction
Education and/or Work Experience Requirement:
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customer
• Excellent computer proficiency (MS Office -Word, Excel, and Outlook)
• Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, while maintaining positive attitude and providing exemplary customer service
• Ability to work independently and to carry out assignments to completion within parameters of instructions given, prescribed routines, and standard practices
• High school diploma or GED required
• Must have a current Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) Certification
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federals, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

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